BBC executives are reportedly keen to secure a presenting role for drag artist La Voix on Strictly Come Dancing, following a series of impressive stand-in appearances that have been viewed as a successful audition.
An Audition in Plain Sight
The cabaret star, whose real name is Christopher Dennis, has made no secret of her ambition to host on the hit BBC show. The 45-year-old, who was a contestant this series before injury forced her withdrawal, repeatedly asked co-host Claudia Winkleman where she could send her CV during her stint.
Her ambitions appear to be moving closer to reality. On Wednesday, La Voix was drafted in to host the finalists' press conference at BBC Broadcasting House, a role typically reserved for It Takes Two hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara.
The move raised eyebrows internally, especially as BBC's Head of Entertainment Commissioning, Kalpna Patel-Knight, was observed keenly watching her performance. A show insider confirmed the significance, stating: "It was definitely an audition."
Backstage Support and Front-of-House Charm
La Voix's potential isn't just based on her quick wit and repartee displayed on screen. Sources highlight that, much like Dame Edna Everage's creator Barry Humphries, Christopher Dennis is known for his kindness and support backstage.
"He has been a real support to everyone behind-the-scenes and it has not gone unnoticed by those at the top," the insider revealed. This combination of professional talent and off-camera collegiality has firmly placed her in contention for a permanent role.
Her audition trail extended beyond Strictly. Just a day before the press conference, on Tuesday, she was asked to fill in on the BBC's flagship breakfast show Morning Live, where she impressed alongside Helen Skelton while replacing Gethin Jones.
What Role Could La Voix Land?
While the immediate priority for the BBC is to finalise replacements for main hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, talks are actively underway about how to integrate La Voix into the Strictly family.
Producers are said to view her as a potential successor to the iconic Dame Edna Everage and are "determined to find her a role on Strictly, whether that be on the main show or It Takes Two." Claudia Winkleman herself is reportedly one of her biggest cheerleaders, believing La Voix is a perfect fit for the show's glamorous and entertaining ethos.
The drag star, who danced with professional Aljaž Škorjanec this series, returned to the studio last night to watch footballer Karen Carney lift the famous Glitterball Trophy, perhaps already scoping out her future workplace.
